Children of Blood & Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

The internet has long been fan-girling for the new release Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi. I’m here to tell you that it’s well worth the long hold wait list at the library!

Zelie is a strong, kick-ass female who has learned how to fight. She’s had to become a warrior because of the continuous abuse of the government towards her people (hmm. . . sound like a familiar problem). Her biggest problem is learning when to fight. She’s a constant target due to her white hair signalling that if Magic still existed she would have been a Magi. Despite being “powerless” the government fears what potential Magi could do.

A day trading in the market for Zelie leads to rescuing the princess Amari and the start to collecting the relics needed to bring back magic to the Magi. There is a journey (like all good heroes require) and an interesting cast of characters. I loved how the journey allowed readers to experience this diverse world and see a wider view of the racial and political problems affecting everyone. Zelie and Amari really grow on the journey and learn to be friends. Zelie’s brother joins them and is a good counter to some of Zelie’s more rash decisions.

Of course, Zelie has a love story as well. It’s complicated (and full of spoilers) but a beautiful story of first love. It has all the passion and excitement you’d expect. You want to root for the couple as much as possible even though you know that it is fraught with complications.

I don’t want to give too much away on this book. Just know that it has magic, awesome characters, a beautiful world, a thrilling ending, and sets the stage for what will be a beloved series.

Author

I am passionately curious about how an earth-centered spirituality and lifestyle can bring peace and wisdom to my life. Esoteric Moment is the online, sacred grove where I can share the wisdom found in Druidry, Pagan Books, and Permaculture with others who share this passion. When I'm not online I have a day job at a local land trust and am developing a permaculture farm in the Driftless Region in Wisconsin.